CH4 THE PIVOT AT FIRST BASE

THE PIVOT AT FIRST BASE IS SO IMPORTANT THAT IT MERITS SPECIAL
DISCUSSION.

With no runners on, a ball hit through the infield or a fly ball to the outfield which doesn't require that the base umpire go out, you should take a pivot across the baseline into the infield to get into better position to follow the action. As the ball is batted, run toward a spot on the baseline between first and second base which is approximately the same distance from the base as the between pitches position of the first baseman. Time your movement so that you will execute the pivot just as the runner rounds first base. The pivot is executed across the baseline. The movement should be timed so that the left foot is planted just before reaching the baseline. The right foot is planted just across the baseline. The umpire pivots on the right foot so that he is watching first base as he executes his turn to the left. Take your eyes off the ball as you approach the spot and watch the runner tag the bag as you make your pivot.

Do not do anything to give away the fact that the runner has missed a base. When you have entered the infield, move in either direction to call a play. You will find that it is easy to beat a runner to second base from this position. Some umpires allow the runner to pass in f ront of them. That umpire will then be behind the runner at second base. it is very difficult to call the play from behind the runner.

There are times when the base umpire should go into the outfield to rule on certain trap ball situations. An agreement must be reached by the umpires so that they will know their responsibilities (pre game conference). Some umpires agree that the base umpire will go out when he senses trouble on any fly ball. Rule of thumb: On a Little League size field the base umpire will not go out on any fly ball.

The plate umpire should watch the base umpire, if he goes out the plate umpire covers for him on the bases. If the base umpire stays in, the plate umpire must make the decision on fly balls, while the base umpire follows the batter runner to second and third base.

With a runner or runners on base, the base umpire should position himself on the outside edge of the infield behind the infielders. His position depends upon which base or bases are occupied. Examples: With a runner on first, he should be stationed behind the second baseman 4 to 5 feet on the first base side of second base. With a runner on first and second, second only, second and third or third only, he should position himself behind the shortstop 4 to 5 feet on the third base side of second base. From those positions with any ball hit through the infield or a fly ball to the outfield, he should move into the infield grass so that he will be able to see the ball, runner and the bases from this position. (See the diagram on next page)

Never position yourself on the infield in a Little League diamond before the pitch.